infrastructure capacities, there is also increased potential for the use (and abuse) of applications utilizing elements of artificial intelligence. It is therefore necessary to focus efforts on research and development into tools to analyse large volumes of data and automate solutions to cyber security incidents. Research topics pertaining to cryptographic protection and the development of cryptographic tools are based upon the internal needs of the NCISA in providing for cryptographic protection, as well as upon consultations with experts in the fields in question. These are topics focusing, for example, on the development of special measuring methods and technologies to provide protection from compromising electromagnetic emissions, and research and development into cryptographic algorithms resistant to breaches, for example, through post-quantum cryptography research. 2.1 Priority Research Topics Pertaining to Protection of Elements of CII, SIS and Basic Service Operators’ Systems:  Advanced penetration testing methods and automation,  analysis of network communications and the development of unique detection techniques in network operations using advanced security information management and threat intelligence,  new methods of protection against DDoS attacks,  security of industrial networks and SCADA/ICS systems in connection with the growth of IoT and connections to the cloud,  development of technologies and methods to increase protection from privacy breaches and identity theft,  protection from sophisticated forms of spear-phishing,  research and development into artificial intelligence algorithms to strengthen cyber security and state strategic networks and systems resilience,  forensic investigation – development of tools for working with electronic evidence,  development of post-quantum cryptography methods able to resist quantum attacks,  protection from sophisticated forms of malware,  support for the development of a cyber security certification and standards system,  security policy, future trends in cyber security legislation, creation of crisis scenarios and methodologies pertaining to cyber security, 7  development of tools for simulation and technical exercises in cyber security,  application of a distributed decentralized database (blockchain) in cyber security.